brands
Burger King vs McDonald's: Which Wins in 2026?
McDonald's dominates globally with 40,575 locations and $23.2B annual revenue, while Burger King operates 18,000 locations with $6.5B revenue. McDonald's leads in market cap and brand value, but Burger King differentiates with flame-grilled burgers and higher customization options.
Burger King
Fast-food chain specializing in flame-grilled burgers with customizable options
Customers who prefer flame-grilled taste, want extensive burger customization, and are willing to pay premium prices for quality over convenience
Score71%
VS
McDonald's
World's largest fast-food chain by revenue, known for consistency and low prices
Price-conscious consumers, travelers needing reliable global consistency, breakfast seekers, and those prioritizing convenience and speed
Score71%
Quick Answer
AI SummaryMcDonald's dominates globally with 40,575 locations and $23.2B annual revenue, while Burger King operates 18,000 locations with $6.5B revenue. McDonald's leads in market cap and brand value, but Burger King differentiates with flame-grilled burgers and higher customization options.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose McDonald's if you prioritize convenience, lowest prices, consistent quality worldwide, and the widest global availability — it's the market leader with superior financials and brand strength. Choose Burger King if you prefer flame-grilled flavor, customizable orders ('Have It Your Way'), and are willing to pay slightly more for a differentiated taste experience.
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Burger King
6.1/10
McDonald's
8.9/10
Choose Burger King if
Customers who prefer flame-grilled taste, want extensive burger customization, and are willing to pay premium prices for quality over convenience
Choose McDonald's if
Best pickPrice-conscious consumers, travelers needing reliable global consistency, breakfast seekers, and those prioritizing convenience and speed
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Key Differences at a Glance
- Global Restaurant Count:✓ McDonald's wins(40,575 locations vs 18,000 locations)
- Annual Revenue (2024):✓ McDonald's wins($23.2 billion vs $6.5 billion)
- Signature Cooking Method:Flame-grilled at 700°F vs Deep-fried and grilled
Key Facts & Figures
119 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | Burger King | McDonald's | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| System-Wide Revenue(USD) | $1.8 Billion | — | — |
| Standard Meal Deal Price (UK)(GBP) | £5.99 | — | — |
| Price Difference(USD) | Saves £2.00 | — | — |
| Signature Burger Flame-Grill Time(seconds) | ~40 seconds per Whopper | — | — |
| Meal Deal Customization Options(burger choices) | 5+ burger options at £5.99 | — | — |
| Annual Corporate Revenue(USD billions) | $6.5B | $23.2B | |
| Franchisee Average Unit Volume(USD thousands) | $1,650 | $2,900 | |
| Initial Franchise Investment(USD millions) | $316-$550 | $1.3 - $2.2 million | |
| Big Mac / Whopper Calories(calories) | 660 cal (Whopper) | 563 cal (Big Mac) | |
| Global Brand Awareness(percent) | 89% | 97% | |
| Loyalty Program Members(millions) | 8M+ (BK Rewards) | 40M+ (McDonald's Rewards) | |
| Total Global Locations(stores) | 18,000+ | 40,575 | |
| Annual Revenue per Restaurant(USD millions) | $1.2M | — | — |
| Customer Satisfaction Score(points (0-100)) | 77 | 75 | |
| Average Drive-Thru Speed(minutes) | 4.5 minutes | — | — |
| Signature Item Calories(calories) | Whopper: 660 cal | — | — |
| Average Meal Price(USD) | $6.50 | — | — |
| Operating Days Per Year(days) | 365 days | 365 days | |
| Menu Item Count(items) | 120+ | 150 items | |
| Average Customer Service Time(minutes) | 6-8 | 3-5 | |
| Average Burger Price(USD) | $7.50-9.50 | $8.50-10.50 | |
| Menu Customization Level(scale 1-10) | 9/10 | 5/10 | |
| Digital Ordering Availability(percentage of locations) | 65% | 80% | |
| Total Global Restaurants(locations) | 18,291 | 40,575 | |
| Annual Revenue(USD billions) | $6.5B | $23.2B | |
| Average Unit Volume (AUV)(USD millions) | $1,200 | $2,700 | |
| Countries of Operation(countries) | 95 | 100+ countries | |
| Signature Burger Price (USD)(USD) | $5.49 (Whopper) | $5.99 (Big Mac) | |
| Average Service Time(minutes) | 4-5 minutes | 3-4 minutes | |
| Franchise Startup Cost(USD thousands) | $250-$550 | $1,000-$2,300 | |
| Single Burger Base Price(USD) | $7.25 | — | — |
| Number of Global Locations(restaurants) | 18,000+ | 40,000+ | |
| Average Customer Rating(stars) | 3.8/5.0 | — | — |
| Average Service Wait Time(minutes) | 6 minutes | — | — |
| Topping Customization Options(count) | 6 standard toppings | — | — |
| Drive-Thru Availability(percent of locations) | 95% | — | — |
| Price Per Pound of Beef(USD) | $2.10/lb | — | — |
| Annual Global Revenue(USD Billion) | $6.5 billion | $23.2 billion | |
| Total Global Restaurant Count(locations) | 18,000 | 40,275 | |
| Average Unit Volume Per Location(USD millions) | $1.62M | $2.7M | |
| Mobile App Daily Active Users(millions) | 4.2M DAU | 28M DAU | |
| Breakfast Menu Item Count(items) | 6 items | 12+ items | |
| Global Brand Awareness (Unaided)(percent) | 89% | 97% | |
| Number of Locations(restaurants) | 18,000+ | 41,025 locations | |
| Brand Value Ranking(global rank) | $19.3 billion | $196.5 billion | |
| Signature Burger Calories(calories) | 660 (Whopper) | 550 (Big Mac) | |
| Countries with Presence(countries) | 90+ countries | 100+ countries | |
| Average Unit Volume(USD per location annually) | $1.2 million | $2.8 million | |
| Global Locations(number of restaurants) | 18,500+ | 40,275 locations | |
| Average Transaction Value(USD) | $8.50 | — | — |
| Core Menu Item Count(number of items) | 150+ | — | — |
| Operating Hours Per Week(hours per week) | 168 (24/7 at many locations) | — | — |
| Employee Turnover Rate(percent annually) | 150% | — | — |
| Average Check-In Rating (Google/Yelp)(stars out of 5) | 3.8 | — | — |
| Global Restaurant Locations(locations) | 18,000 | 40,575 | |
| Whopper/Quarter Pounder Price(USD) | $7.49 | $5.99 | |
| Market Capitalization(USD billions) | $25.8B | $47.3B | |
| Flame-Grilling Temperature(°F) | 700°F | Not flame-grilled | — |
| Menu Customization Options(count) | Extensive (50+ combinations) | Limited (10-15 combinations) | |
| Global Brand Value Rank(ranking) | #35 globally | #10 globally | |
| Whipper/Quarter Pounder Beef Patty Weight(ounces) | 2.0 oz flame-grilled | 1.6 oz beef | |
| Global Restaurant Count(locations) | 40,000+ | 40,000+ | |
| 2026 Revenue Growth(percentage) | +3% | +3% | |
| Average Burger Price(USD) | $5-7 | $5-7 | |
| Average Chicken Sandwich Price(USD) | $6.99 | $6.99 | |
| 2026 New Location Growth Target(locations) | 8,000 | 8,000 | |
| Value Meal Price(GBP) | £3.89 | £3.89 | |
| Average Customer Transaction Time(minutes) | 3.8 minutes | 3.8 minutes | |
| New Menu Items Per Year(items) | 2-3 items | 2-3 items | |
| New Location Expansion (2026)(locations) | 8,000 new locations planned | 8,000 new locations planned | |
| Price Advantage for Value Seekers(percent cheaper) | 105% cheaper than Wendy's | 105% cheaper than Wendy's | |
| Global Store Locations(stores) | 3,000+ | 3,000+ | |
| Annual Operating Days(days) | 340 days | 340 days | |
| Price Premium vs. Competitor(percent) | baseline | baseline | |
| International Presence(countries) | U.S. only | U.S. only | |
| US Restaurant Locations(count) | 13,000+ | 13,000+ | |
| Global Market Presence(Countries) | 100+ | 100+ | |
| Breakfast Revenue Contribution(percent of annual revenue) | 35% | 35% | |
| Mobile Loyalty Program Users(millions active users) | 50M+ | 50M+ | |
| Brand Unaided Awareness (US)(percent) | 69% | 69% | |
| Annual System-Wide Revenue(USD billions) | $23.2 billion | $23.2 billion | |
| Average Transaction Time(minutes) | 4-5 | 4-5 | |
| Average Check Size(USD) | $9.42 | $9.42 | |
| US Brand Awareness (Unaided)(percent) | 93% of US consumers | 93% of US consumers | |
| Gen Z Customer Preference(percent of under-25 customers) | 28% of customer base | 28% of customer base | |
| Number of Locations Worldwide(restaurants) | 40,576 | 40,576 | |
| Annual Revenue (2024)(USD Billion) | $23.2B | $23.2B | |
| Average Menu Item Price(USD) | $9.75 | $9.75 | |
| Average Google Review Rating(stars out of 5) | 3.8 | 3.8 | |
| Breakfast Menu Items(items) | 15+ | 15+ | |
| Locations Open Past Midnight(percentage) | 62% | 62% | |
| Mobile App Loyalty Members(millions) | 40+ (McDonald's Rewards) | 40+ (McDonald's Rewards) | |
| Brand Recognition (Global)(percent) | 68% | 68% | |
| Breakfast Availability Hours(hours per day) | 24 hours (all-day breakfast) | 24 hours (all-day breakfast) | |
| Social Media Followers (Twitter/X)(millions) | 26.3M | 26.3M | |
| US Location Count(locations) | 13,573 | 13,573 | |
| Customer Satisfaction (ACSI)(score/100) | 74 | 74 | |
| Chicken Sandwich Price(USD) | $6.79 | $6.79 | |
| Drive-Thru Speed(minutes) | 5.8 min | 5.8 min | |
| Menu Items Available(items) | 150+ items | 150+ items | |
| Global Countries Served(countries) | 100+ | 100+ | |
| Average Employee Wage(USD/hour) | $13.50 | $13.50 | |
| Average Beverage Customization Options(drink variations) | 12 | 12 | |
| Average Transaction Cost(USD) | $10-14 | $10-14 | |
| Mobile App Order Penetration(percent of orders) | 29% | 29% | |
| Average Order Fulfillment Time(minutes) | 3-4 minutes | 3-4 minutes | |
| International Country Presence(count) | 150+ countries | 150+ countries | |
| Average Burger Calorie Content(calories) | 550 cal (Big Mac) | 550 cal (Big Mac) | |
| U.S. Restaurant Locations(count) | 13,574 | 13,574 | |
| Classic Chicken Sandwich Price(USD) | $5.99 | $5.99 | |
| Operating Days Per Week(days) | 7 | 7 | |
| Average Meal Calorie Count(calories) | 740 | 740 | |
| Core Menu Items(count) | 145 | 145 | |
| Annual U.S. Revenue(billion USD) | $23.2B | $23.2B | |
| Average Starting Wage(USD/hour) | $13.50 | $13.50 | |
| Average Entrée Price (US)(USD) | $12.50 | $12.50 | |
| Typical Meal Calories(calories) | 975 calories | 975 calories | |
| Customer Satisfaction Rating(percent) | 73% | 73% | |
| Order Fulfillment Speed(minutes) | 4.5 minutes | 4.5 minutes |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
McDonald's leads1 tie
Burger King
Attribute
McDonald's
- 18,000 locationsGlobal Restaurant Count40,575 locations(winner)
- $6.5 billionAnnual Revenue (2024)$23.2 billion(winner)
- Flame-grilled at 700°FSignature Cooking MethodDeep-fried and grilled
- $7.49 (Whopper)Average Burger Price (USD)$5.99 (Quarter Pounder)(winner)
- Have It Your Way - extensive(winner)Customization OptionsLimited customization
- $25.8 billionMarket Capitalization$47.3 billion(winner)
- #35 globallyBrand Value Ranking (Global)#10 globally(winner)
- Global Restaurant Count
Burger King
18,000 locations
McDonald's
40,575 locations(winner)
- Annual Revenue (2024)
Burger King
$6.5 billion
McDonald's
$23.2 billion(winner)
- Signature Cooking Method
Burger King
Flame-grilled at 700°F
McDonald's
Deep-fried and grilled
- Average Burger Price (USD)
Burger King
$7.49 (Whopper)
McDonald's
$5.99 (Quarter Pounder)(winner)
- Customization Options
Burger King
Have It Your Way - extensive(winner)
McDonald's
Limited customization
- Market Capitalization
Burger King
$25.8 billion
McDonald's
$47.3 billion(winner)
- Brand Value Ranking (Global)
Burger King
#35 globally
McDonald's
#10 globally(winner)
Full Comparison
| Attribute | Burger King | McDonald's |
|---|---|---|
| System-Wide Revenue(USD) | $1.8 Billion | — |
| Annual Global Revenue(USD Billion) | $6.5 billion | $23.2 billion(winner) |
| Standard Meal Deal Price (UK)(GBP) | £5.99 | — |
| Average Meal Price(USD) | $6.50 | — |
| Average Burger Price(USD) | $7.50-9.50(winner) | $8.50-10.50 |
| Signature Burger Price (USD)(USD) | $5.49 (Whopper)(winner) | $5.99 (Big Mac) |
| Single Burger Base Price(USD) | $7.25 | — |
Show 9 more attributesAverage Transaction Value(USD) $8.50 — Whopper/Quarter Pounder Price(USD) $7.49 $5.99 Average Chicken Sandwich Price(USD) $6.99 — Value Meal Price(GBP) £3.89 — Price Premium vs. Competitor(percent) baseline — Average Menu Item Price(USD) $9.75 — Average Transaction Cost(USD) $10-14 — Classic Chicken Sandwich Price(USD) $5.99 — Average Entrée Price (US)(USD) $12.50 — | ||
| Price Difference(USD) | Saves £2.00 | — |
| Beef Freshness | Flame-grilled (quality varies by location) | — |
| Beef Sourcing Method | Flame-grilled frozen patties | — |
| Customer Satisfaction (ACSI)(score/100) | 74 | — |
| Signature Burger Flame-Grill Time(seconds) | ~40 seconds per Whopper | — |
| Core Menu Dessert Innovation (2026) | Standard Frosty-style offerings | — |
| Restaurant Design Update | Traditional format | — |
| Meal Deal Customization Options(burger choices) | 5+ burger options at £5.99 | — |
| Price Per Pound of Beef(USD) | $2.10/lb | — |
| Annual Corporate Revenue(USD billions) | $6.5B | $23.2B(winner) |
| Annual Revenue per Restaurant(USD millions) | $1.2M | — |
| Annual Revenue(USD billions) | $6.5B | $23.2B(winner) |
| Average Unit Volume (AUV)(USD millions) | $1,200 | $2,700(winner) |
| Average Unit Volume(USD per location annually) | $1.2 million | $2.8 million(winner) |
Show 3 more attributesMarket Capitalization(USD billions) $25.8B $47.3B 2026 Revenue Growth(percentage) +3% — Annual System-Wide Revenue(USD billions) $23.2 billion — | ||
| Franchisee Average Unit Volume(USD thousands) | $1,650 | $2,900(winner) |
| Initial Franchise Investment(USD millions) | $316-$550 | $1.3 - $2.2 million(winner) |
| Big Mac / Whopper Calories(calories) | 660 cal (Whopper) | 563 cal (Big Mac)(winner) |
| Signature Item Calories(calories) | Whopper: 660 cal | — |
| Signature Burger Calories(calories) | 660 (Whopper) | 550 (Big Mac)(winner) |
| Average Burger Calorie Content(calories) | 550 cal (Big Mac) | — |
| Average Meal Calorie Count(calories) | 740 | — |
Show 1 more attributeTypical Meal Calories(calories) 975 calories — | ||
| Global Brand Awareness(percent) | 89% | 97%(winner) |
| Loyalty Program Members(millions) | 8M+ (BK Rewards) | 40M+ (McDonald's Rewards)(winner) |
| Mobile Loyalty Program Users(millions active users) | 50M+ | — |
| Mobile App Loyalty Members(millions) | 40+ (McDonald's Rewards) | — |
| Customization Options | ~1000+ 'Have it Your Way' combos(winner) | ~200 menu variations |
| Total Global Locations(stores) | 18,000+ | 40,575(winner) |
| Customer Satisfaction Score(points (0-100)) | 77(winner) | 75 |
| Average Drive-Thru Speed(minutes) | 4.5 minutes | — |
| Order Fulfillment Speed(minutes) | 4.5 minutes | — |
| Operating Days Per Year(days) | 365 days | 365 days |
| Number of Global Locations(restaurants) | 18,000+ | 40,000+(winner) |
| Operating Hours Per Week(hours per week) | 168 (24/7 at many locations) | — |
| Annual Operating Days(days) | 340 days | — |
| Locations Open Past Midnight(percentage) | 62% | — |
Show 2 more attributesUS Location Count(locations) 13,573 — Operating Days Per Week(days) 7 — | ||
| Menu Item Count(items) | 120+ | 150 items(winner) |
| Average Customer Service Time(minutes) | 6-8 | 3-5(winner) |
| Menu Customization Level(scale 1-10) | 9/10(winner) | 5/10 |
| Menu Item Customization Options(level) | Standard options | — |
| Digital Ordering Availability(percentage of locations) | 65% | 80%(winner) |
| Total Global Restaurants(locations) | 18,291 | 40,575(winner) |
| Average Employee Wage(USD/hour) | $13.50 | — |
| Countries of Operation(countries) | 95 | 100+ countries(winner) |
| Total Global Restaurant Count(locations) | 18,000 | 40,275(winner) |
| Global Restaurant Locations(locations) | 18,000 | 40,575(winner) |
| Global Restaurant Count(locations) | 40,000+ | — |
| Number of Locations Worldwide(restaurants) | 40,576 | — |
| Average Service Time(minutes) | 4-5 minutes | 3-4 minutes(winner) |
| Drive-Thru Availability(percent of locations) | 95% | — |
| Drive-Thru Speed(minutes) | 5.8 min | — |
| Franchise Startup Cost(USD thousands) | $250-$550(winner) | $1,000-$2,300 |
| Annual U.S. Revenue(billion USD) | $23.2B | — |
| Average Customer Rating(stars) | 3.8/5.0 | — |
| Average Google Review Rating(stars out of 5) | 3.8 | — |
| Average Service Wait Time(minutes) | 6 minutes | — |
| Topping Customization Options(count) | 6 standard toppings | — |
| Breakfast Menu Items(items) | 15+ | — |
| Average Beverage Customization Options(drink variations) | 12 | — |
| Core Menu Items(count) | 145 | — |
| Average Unit Volume Per Location(USD millions) | $1.62M | $2.7M(winner) |
| Mobile App Daily Active Users(millions) | 4.2M DAU | 28M DAU(winner) |
| Social Media Followers (Twitter/X)(millions) | 26.3M | — |
| Franchise Startup Investment Range(USD) | $316K - $516K | $1.6M - $2.3M |
| Breakfast Menu Item Count(items) | 6 items | 12+ items(winner) |
| Primary Burger Cooking Method | Flame-grilled (smoky flavor) | Griddle-cooked (consistent) |
| Chicken Sandwich Quality Focus | Standard offerings | — |
| Beef Freshness Standard | Frozen beef (100% beef) | — |
| Global Brand Awareness (Unaided)(percent) | 89% | 97%(winner) |
| Brand Value Ranking(global rank) | $19.3 billion(winner) | $196.5 billion |
| Global Brand Value Rank(ranking) | #35 globally | #10 globally(winner) |
| Brand Unaided Awareness (US)(percent) | 69% | — |
| US Brand Awareness (Unaided)(percent) | 93% of US consumers | — |
Show 1 more attributeBrand Recognition (Global)(percent) 68% — | ||
| Number of Locations(restaurants) | 18,000+ | 41,025 locations(winner) |
| Countries with Presence(countries) | 90+ countries | 100+ countries(winner) |
| International Presence(countries) | U.S. only | — |
| Global Countries Served(countries) | 100+ | — |
| International Country Presence(count) | 150+ countries | — |
| Global Locations(number of restaurants) | 18,500+ | 40,275 locations(winner) |
| Core Menu Item Count(number of items) | 150+ | — |
| Employee Turnover Rate(percent annually) | 150% | — |
| Average Check-In Rating (Google/Yelp)(stars out of 5) | 3.8 | — |
| Flame-Grilling Temperature(°F) | 700°F | Not flame-grilled |
| Menu Customization Options(count) | Extensive (50+ combinations)(winner) | Limited (10-15 combinations) |
| Whipper/Quarter Pounder Beef Patty Weight(ounces) | 2.0 oz flame-grilled(winner) | 1.6 oz beef |
| Beef Freshness | Frozen patties standard | — |
| Beef Quality Grade(text) | Frozen beef patties | — |
| Drive-Thru Technology Level | AI-powered order systems 2026 | — |
| Drive-Thru AI Technology | Voice-activated with AI accuracy scaling | — |
| Average Burger Price(USD) | $5-7 | — |
| New Restaurant Openings 2026(planned locations) | Expansion planned | — |
| 2026 New Location Growth Target(locations) | 8,000 | — |
| Chicken Preparation Method | Frozen patties + fresh beef option | — |
| Average Customer Transaction Time(minutes) | 3.8 minutes | — |
| New Menu Items Per Year(items) | 2-3 items | — |
| Drive-Thru Technology (2026) | AI voice-activated with accuracy scaling | — |
| New Location Expansion (2026)(locations) | 8,000 new locations planned | — |
| Restaurant Design Innovation | Optimized drive-thru layout | — |
| Price Advantage for Value Seekers(percent cheaper) | 105% cheaper than Wendy's | — |
| Global Store Locations(stores) | 3,000+ | — |
| US Restaurant Locations(count) | 13,000+ | — |
| Quality Ranking (YouGov 2026)(ranking) | #1 fries only | — |
| 2025 Sales Tier(ranking) | Top 3 ($107B trifecta) | — |
| Global Market Presence(Countries) | 100+ | — |
| Breakfast Revenue Contribution(percent of annual revenue) | 35% | — |
| Menu Item Categories(primary daypart focus) | All-day breakfast/lunch/dinner | — |
| Average Transaction Time(minutes) | 4-5 | — |
| Average Check Size(USD) | $9.42 | — |
| Gen Z Customer Preference(percent of under-25 customers) | 28% of customer base | — |
| Annual Revenue (2024)(USD Billion) | $23.2B | — |
| Breakfast Availability Hours(hours per day) | 24 hours (all-day breakfast) | — |
| Chicken Sandwich Price(USD) | $6.79 | — |
| Menu Items Available(items) | 150+ items | — |
| Mobile App Order Penetration(percent of orders) | 29% | — |
| Average Order Fulfillment Time(minutes) | 3-4 minutes | — |
| U.S. Restaurant Locations(count) | 13,574 | — |
| Average Starting Wage(USD/hour) | $13.50 | — |
| Customer Satisfaction Rating(percent) | 73% | — |
Burger KingMcDonald'sSystem-Wide Revenue(USD)
$1.8 Billion
—
Annual Global Revenue(USD Billion)
$6.5 billion
$23.2 billion
Standard Meal Deal Price (UK)(GBP)
£5.99
—
Average Meal Price(USD)
$6.50
—
Average Burger Price(USD)
$7.50-9.50
$8.50-10.50
Signature Burger Price (USD)(USD)
$5.49 (Whopper)
$5.99 (Big Mac)
Single Burger Base Price(USD)
$7.25
—
Show 9 more attributes
Average Transaction Value(USD)
$8.50
—
Whopper/Quarter Pounder Price(USD)
$7.49
$5.99
Average Chicken Sandwich Price(USD)
$6.99
—
Value Meal Price(GBP)
£3.89
—
Price Premium vs. Competitor(percent)
baseline
—
Average Menu Item Price(USD)
$9.75
—
Average Transaction Cost(USD)
$10-14
—
Classic Chicken Sandwich Price(USD)
$5.99
—
Average Entrée Price (US)(USD)
$12.50
—
Price Difference(USD)
Saves £2.00
—
Beef Freshness
Flame-grilled (quality varies by location)
—
Beef Sourcing Method
Flame-grilled frozen patties
—
Customer Satisfaction (ACSI)(score/100)
74
—
Signature Burger Flame-Grill Time(seconds)
~40 seconds per Whopper
—
Core Menu Dessert Innovation (2026)
Standard Frosty-style offerings
—
Restaurant Design Update
Traditional format
—
Meal Deal Customization Options(burger choices)
5+ burger options at £5.99
—
Price Per Pound of Beef(USD)
$2.10/lb
—
Annual Corporate Revenue(USD billions)
$6.5B
$23.2B
Annual Revenue per Restaurant(USD millions)
$1.2M
—
Annual Revenue(USD billions)
$6.5B
$23.2B
Average Unit Volume (AUV)(USD millions)
$1,200
$2,700
Average Unit Volume(USD per location annually)
$1.2 million
$2.8 million
Show 3 more attributes
Market Capitalization(USD billions)
$25.8B
$47.3B
2026 Revenue Growth(percentage)
+3%
—
Annual System-Wide Revenue(USD billions)
$23.2 billion
—
Franchisee Average Unit Volume(USD thousands)
$1,650
$2,900
Initial Franchise Investment(USD millions)
$316-$550
$1.3 - $2.2 million
Big Mac / Whopper Calories(calories)
660 cal (Whopper)
563 cal (Big Mac)
Signature Item Calories(calories)
Whopper: 660 cal
—
Signature Burger Calories(calories)
660 (Whopper)
550 (Big Mac)
Average Burger Calorie Content(calories)
550 cal (Big Mac)
—
Average Meal Calorie Count(calories)
740
—
Show 1 more attribute
Typical Meal Calories(calories)
975 calories
—
Global Brand Awareness(percent)
89%
97%
Loyalty Program Members(millions)
8M+ (BK Rewards)
40M+ (McDonald's Rewards)
Mobile Loyalty Program Users(millions active users)
50M+
—
Mobile App Loyalty Members(millions)
40+ (McDonald's Rewards)
—
Customization Options
~1000+ 'Have it Your Way' combos
~200 menu variations
Total Global Locations(stores)
18,000+
40,575
Customer Satisfaction Score(points (0-100))
77
75
Average Drive-Thru Speed(minutes)
4.5 minutes
—
Order Fulfillment Speed(minutes)
4.5 minutes
—
Operating Days Per Year(days)
365 days
365 days
Number of Global Locations(restaurants)
18,000+
40,000+
Operating Hours Per Week(hours per week)
168 (24/7 at many locations)
—
Annual Operating Days(days)
340 days
—
Locations Open Past Midnight(percentage)
62%
—
Show 2 more attributes
US Location Count(locations)
13,573
—
Operating Days Per Week(days)
7
—
Menu Item Count(items)
120+
150 items
Average Customer Service Time(minutes)
6-8
3-5
Menu Customization Level(scale 1-10)
9/10
5/10
Menu Item Customization Options(level)
Standard options
—
Digital Ordering Availability(percentage of locations)
65%
80%
Total Global Restaurants(locations)
18,291
40,575
Average Employee Wage(USD/hour)
$13.50
—
Countries of Operation(countries)
95
100+ countries
Total Global Restaurant Count(locations)
18,000
40,275
Global Restaurant Locations(locations)
18,000
40,575
Global Restaurant Count(locations)
40,000+
—
Number of Locations Worldwide(restaurants)
40,576
—
Average Service Time(minutes)
4-5 minutes
3-4 minutes
Drive-Thru Availability(percent of locations)
95%
—
Drive-Thru Speed(minutes)
5.8 min
—
Franchise Startup Cost(USD thousands)
$250-$550
$1,000-$2,300
Annual U.S. Revenue(billion USD)
$23.2B
—
Average Customer Rating(stars)
3.8/5.0
—
Average Google Review Rating(stars out of 5)
3.8
—
Average Service Wait Time(minutes)
6 minutes
—
Topping Customization Options(count)
6 standard toppings
—
Breakfast Menu Items(items)
15+
—
Average Beverage Customization Options(drink variations)
12
—
Core Menu Items(count)
145
—
Average Unit Volume Per Location(USD millions)
$1.62M
$2.7M
Mobile App Daily Active Users(millions)
4.2M DAU
28M DAU
Social Media Followers (Twitter/X)(millions)
26.3M
—
Franchise Startup Investment Range(USD)
$316K - $516K
$1.6M - $2.3M
Breakfast Menu Item Count(items)
6 items
12+ items
Primary Burger Cooking Method
Flame-grilled (smoky flavor)
Griddle-cooked (consistent)
Chicken Sandwich Quality Focus
Standard offerings
—
Beef Freshness Standard
Frozen beef (100% beef)
—
Global Brand Awareness (Unaided)(percent)
89%
97%
Brand Value Ranking(global rank)
$19.3 billion
$196.5 billion
Global Brand Value Rank(ranking)
#35 globally
#10 globally
Brand Unaided Awareness (US)(percent)
69%
—
US Brand Awareness (Unaided)(percent)
93% of US consumers
—
Show 1 more attribute
Brand Recognition (Global)(percent)
68%
—
Number of Locations(restaurants)
18,000+
41,025 locations
Countries with Presence(countries)
90+ countries
100+ countries
International Presence(countries)
U.S. only
—
Global Countries Served(countries)
100+
—
International Country Presence(count)
150+ countries
—
Global Locations(number of restaurants)
18,500+
40,275 locations
Core Menu Item Count(number of items)
150+
—
Employee Turnover Rate(percent annually)
150%
—
Average Check-In Rating (Google/Yelp)(stars out of 5)
3.8
—
Flame-Grilling Temperature(°F)
700°F
Not flame-grilled
Menu Customization Options(count)
Extensive (50+ combinations)
Limited (10-15 combinations)
Whipper/Quarter Pounder Beef Patty Weight(ounces)
2.0 oz flame-grilled
1.6 oz beef
Beef Freshness
Frozen patties standard
—
Beef Quality Grade(text)
Frozen beef patties
—
Drive-Thru Technology Level
AI-powered order systems 2026
—
Drive-Thru AI Technology
Voice-activated with AI accuracy scaling
—
Average Burger Price(USD)
$5-7
—
New Restaurant Openings 2026(planned locations)
Expansion planned
—
2026 New Location Growth Target(locations)
8,000
—
Chicken Preparation Method
Frozen patties + fresh beef option
—
Average Customer Transaction Time(minutes)
3.8 minutes
—
New Menu Items Per Year(items)
2-3 items
—
Drive-Thru Technology (2026)
AI voice-activated with accuracy scaling
—
New Location Expansion (2026)(locations)
8,000 new locations planned
—
Restaurant Design Innovation
Optimized drive-thru layout
—
Price Advantage for Value Seekers(percent cheaper)
105% cheaper than Wendy's
—
Global Store Locations(stores)
3,000+
—
US Restaurant Locations(count)
13,000+
—
Quality Ranking (YouGov 2026)(ranking)
#1 fries only
—
2025 Sales Tier(ranking)
Top 3 ($107B trifecta)
—
Global Market Presence(Countries)
100+
—
Breakfast Revenue Contribution(percent of annual revenue)
35%
—
Menu Item Categories(primary daypart focus)
All-day breakfast/lunch/dinner
—
Average Transaction Time(minutes)
4-5
—
Average Check Size(USD)
$9.42
—
Gen Z Customer Preference(percent of under-25 customers)
28% of customer base
—
Annual Revenue (2024)(USD Billion)
$23.2B
—
Breakfast Availability Hours(hours per day)
24 hours (all-day breakfast)
—
Chicken Sandwich Price(USD)
$6.79
—
Menu Items Available(items)
150+ items
—
Mobile App Order Penetration(percent of orders)
29%
—
Average Order Fulfillment Time(minutes)
3-4 minutes
—
U.S. Restaurant Locations(count)
13,574
—
Average Starting Wage(USD/hour)
$13.50
—
Customer Satisfaction Rating(percent)
73%
—
Pros & Cons
10 pros·4 cons across both
Burger King
+5-2
Pros
- Flame-grilled burgers at 700°F create distinct smoky flavor vs fried competitors
- 'Have It Your Way' philosophy offers extensive customization (toppings, portions, preparation)
- Whopper burger has 50+ years of iconic brand recognition
- Restaurant Brands International ownership provides financial stability
- Strong value menu with items under $3
Cons
- Less global presence (18,000 vs 40,575 locations) limits accessibility
- Higher average burger prices ($7.49 Whopper vs $5.99 McDonald's Quarter Pounder)
McDonald's
+5-2
Pros
- 40,575 global locations provide unmatched accessibility and consistency
- $23.2B annual revenue (3.5x Burger King) enables superior R&D and innovation
- Average burger price $5.99 undercuts Burger King by 20%
- Proprietary beef blend and unique flavor profile developed over 70+ years
- Superior breakfast menu (McMuffins, griddle items) vs Burger King
Cons
- Limited customization compared to Burger King's 'Have It Your Way' approach
- Deep-fried preparation lacks the distinct flame-grilled character some consumers prefer
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
McDonald's lower individual burger prices ($5.99 vs $7.49) are offset by higher ancillary costs — their breakfast menu drives more per-visit spending. However, McDonald's value menu and bundling strategies keep total transaction costs competitive. Burger King compensates with premium pricing on signature items but offers stronger value menu options under $3.
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